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How much is a 1990 caravan?

Prices for a 1990 caravan (travel trailer) vary widely based on model, condition, and location, but you can expect roughly $2,000 to $15,000 USD in today’s market, with most units in the $3,000–$8,000 range.


Understanding the price landscape


Buying a vintage caravan involves weighing its age against its condition and provenance. The following factors shape what you’ll pay and what you’ll get for your money.



  • Age and condition: A 1990 model can range from well-preserved to heavily worn; signs of water damage, rust, or delamination can dramatically lower value.

  • Model and layout: Popular floorplans or rare layouts with more sleeping spaces or amenities may fetch higher prices.

  • Chassis and construction: Aluminum-bodied campers, overall length, GVWR, and structural integrity influence price and resale value.

  • Interior and equipment: Working appliances (fridge, stove, water heater), plumbing, electrical systems, and condition of upholstery affect price.

  • Originality and modifications: Original fixtures and cabinetry can enhance value, while extensive, non-factory modifications may either add or subtract value depending on buyer preference.

  • Documentation and history: Clear titles, service records, and a documented maintenance history tend to support asking prices.


Concluding paragraph: In practice, prices reflect a balance between how complete and functional the caravan is and how much work a buyer is willing to invest in repairs or restoration.


What to expect by condition and setup


Here is a snapshot of typical price bands you might encounter, based on common market conditions for used vintage caravans. Keep in mind that regional demand, shipping costs, and seller urgency can shift these ranges.



  • Running/usable with basic amenities: commonly around $3,000–$8,000 if the caravan is in solid mechanical and leak-free condition.

  • Cosmetic refresh or partial repairs needed: typically $2,000–$6,000, depending on the scope of work and parts availability.

  • Fully restored or rare, highly desirable layouts: roughly $8,000–$15,000 or more for well-kept examples or sought-after models.


Concluding paragraph: Before making an offer, inspect thoroughly or hire a professional to assess leaks, structural integrity, and safety systems, and compare listings to gauge whether a price fairly reflects needed work.


Practical buying tips and where to look


To maximize your chances of getting a fair deal on a 1990 caravan, consider these guidance points and shopping venues.



  • Inspect for leaks and water damage: Check roof, seals around windows and doors, floor integrity, and cabinetry moisture signs.

  • Check tires, brakes, and hitch: Old tires and worn brakes can add to maintenance costs; ensure the tow hitch meets your vehicle’s specs.

  • Verify utilities and appliances: Test the fridge, heater, water heater, plumbing, and electrical system; confirm LPG or electrical hookups are up to date and safe.

  • Research local prices: Compare similar models and conditions in your area to avoid overpaying due to scarcity or competition.

  • Budget for upgrades: Plan for improvements such as insulation, resealing, and safety upgrades if you intend to use the caravan regularly.


Concluding paragraph: A careful buyer can secure a durable vintage caravan that fits both budget and lifestyle, provided due diligence is performed and expectations are aligned with the caravan’s condition.


Summary


A 1990 caravan sits in a broad price spectrum driven by condition, model, and location. Typical usable units tend to fall in the low-to-mid thousands of dollars, while well-preserved or restored examples can push toward the higher end of the range. Always inspect thoroughly, compare similar listings, and budget for necessary repairs or upgrades to arrive at a fair price.

What year to stay away from a Dodge Caravan?


Years to avoid for the Dodge Caravan include 2005, 2008, 2011, and 2018, due to issues like brake problems, electrical faults, and transmission troubles. Other potentially problematic years include the first year of a new engine (such as the 3.6L in 2011) and models with the 4.0L engine due to a variety of potential issues.
 
This video discusses common problems with the Dodge Grand Caravan from 2014 to 2020: 47sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Feb 6, 2023
Years with significant issues 

  • 2005: Known for brake issues and interior accessory problems. 
  • 2008: Common complaints include brake problems, a slipping transmission, and A/C issues. 
  • 2011: Electrical issues are frequently reported, and this was the first year for the 3.6L engine, which may have issues in its first year. 
  • 2018: Recalls include an issue with rear brake lines and a faulty fuel tank gasket that can cause a fire risk. 

This video explains the top 5 problems with the 5th generation Dodge Grand Caravan: 46s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 28, 2020
Other considerations
  • Engine and transmission: Avoid the 4.0L engine. The 62TE transmission is also known to have major issues in some models. 
  • First-year models: It's best to avoid the first model year for any new engine, such as the 3.6L introduced in 2011, as they often have issues that are fixed in later years. 
  • Power sliding doors: Vehicles with power sliding doors have a potential for expensive door issues, regardless of the model year. 



How much is a Dodge Caravan worth?


Recent used model years of the Dodge Grand Caravan are currently priced at an average of $12,175, according to our used car price index.



How much does a 1990 car cost?


In 1990, the average new car cost around $15,042, while the average used car cost approximately $6,830. Specific models varied, such as a Toyota Tercel starting at about $6,488 and a Toyota Camry Deluxe Sedan with a four-speed automatic transmission costing $13,078. 
New car costs in 1990

  • Average: The average price for a new vehicle was about $15,042. 
  • Toyota Tercel: The least expensive 1990 Toyota model, the Tercel EZ, started at approximately $6,488. 
  • Toyota Camry: A Camry Deluxe Sedan with a four-speed automatic transmission was priced at $13,078. 
  • Hyundai Excel: The five-door hatchback model had an average price of about $7,599. 

Used car costs in 1990 
  • Average: The average price for a used car in 1990 was $6,830. 
  • Dodge Caravan: A two-year-old, 1988 Dodge Caravan could cost more than $19,000. 



How much is a 1990 Chevy 1500 worth today?


A 1990 Chevy 1500's value varies significantly, from a low of about $1,000 to over $50,000, depending on its condition, mileage, and features. A rough, non-running truck might be worth a few hundred dollars, while a well-maintained or rare model can be worth tens of thousands. For an average condition truck, expect to pay around $4,750 to $11,947.
 
Factors that influence value

  • Condition: A truck in poor condition with rust or mechanical issues will have a much lower value than one in excellent or outstanding condition. 
  • Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value of a classic truck. 
  • Trim and features: A rarer or more desirable trim like the 454 SS, which was a performance model, can be worth significantly more. Options and modifications also play a role. 
  • History: A truck with a clean history, especially one that has been well-maintained and not driven in winter, will be worth more. 

Value estimates by condition
  • Rough/Non-running: You might get $500 to $1,500 for a project truck that doesn't run, depending on its condition and parts value. 
  • Average: Expect a value around $4,750 to $11,947 for a truck in average condition. 
  • Outstanding/High-end: Well-maintained or rare models can be worth tens of thousands of dollars, with some 454 SS models fetching over $50,000 at auction. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.